Light fixtures at lowes?

This is a discussion on Light fixtures at lowes? within the DIY Aquarium forums, part of the TFK Resources category; -->
While I was at lowes hardware store buying items for my acrylic lid. I shot over to the light section and checked out some ...

While I was at lowes hardware store buying items for my acrylic lid. I shot over to the light section and checked out some of their light fixtures. I was surprised by how cheap they were. There was a 4ft light fixture for only $10. Could these be used for the lighting of an aquarium? I just made me an acrylic top for the aquarium, but I am planning on building a canopy for my tank to hide all the lights, filters, ect. It is a 125gal. I dont plan on having a heavily planted tank either. Could I use these?

Heres a website you can go to to check it out. This one is not the exact one (could not find the one I saw on lowes' website), but its along the lines.

I would say yes. Just be careful that it doesn't come in contact with water. Aquarium fixtures are more insulated than shop lights. Also, try to keep the tubes up off of the acrylic panel. I'm sure there is a lot of advice and more expert knowledge than mine to come, so read on. Good luck.

Yes, if your canopy will keep the fixture dry and the tubes above the acrylic. I think that is what Tazman meant. I think we're getting confused over the terms top, canopy and cover.

LOl, yeah I think so. I made an acrylic top to help with the evaporation. And now I am going to build a canopy to hid all the mess like, lights, filters, and tubing. I plan to have whatever light fixture, connected to the top of the canopy on the inside. I will be painting the inside of the canopy white to reflect better. That is my plan as it stands now.